Many men and women suffer from acne. It affects individuals of all races all over the world. Though breakouts usually start in the teen years, they sometimes continue well into adulthood. Severe or even mild acne can scar the skin and redden the complexion of those it afflicts.

Some mistakenly assume that acne sufferers just need to do a better job of cleansing the skin. But while a number of factors can cause acne, in some cases it's genetic. For these individuals, no amount of cleansing clears their skin.

While many choose to use over-the-counter products containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to reduce breakouts, these products may not work for some individuals. Others may suffer allergic reactions to such ingredients. That means that some men and women simply clear their skin by using products available at the drug store.

When over-the-counter products fail to thwart breakouts, consulting a licensed esthetician just might do the trick. An esthetician is a skin care professional skilled in the treatment of acne and other skin maladies.

When all else fails, consider a trip to a dermatologist. A doctor who specializes in diseases of the skin, a dermatologist prescribes medications to clear the skin.

Those lacking access to professional help may continue to suffer with acne. But the good news is that redness and blemishes can be covered with cosmetics. It just takes the right products, a little know-how, and some practice.

Color Correction
Pimples often come with red, inflamed skin around the blemish. So it’s important to use a green color corrector to eliminate redness.

Color correctors come in cream, stick, or liquid formulas. Some foundation primers contain color correctors as well. For specific instructions on how to use color correctors, visit the link below this article called “Correcting Skin Discoloration with Makeup.”

Foundation
Choose a foundation formulated for acne or oily complexions that won’t worsen the problem. Look for products that don’t clog pores, often labeled “non-comedogenic.” Severe acne calls for products with medium or full coverage. Apply foundatiion with fingers, a brush, a cosmetic sponge or a Beauty Blender. Patting foundation over blemishes provides a little more coverage, but make to blend it well.

For more information on foundations visit the link below his article, “Foundation Basics.”

Concealer
Dab concealer onto individual blemishes. Pat it gently with fingertips or a sponge, blending it into the foundation or the skin until it appears undetectable.

Powder
For the final touch, set makeup with powder. Dust on loose powder with a brush or dab on pressed powder where needed. Avoid applying too much though; it can emphasize problems like enlarged pores or acne.

For those who suffer with stubborn acne, makeup can help. It reduces the look of redness and makes skin look clearer. While the best solution for acne is to seek help from a dermatologist or esthetician, covering breakouts with makeup can help alleviate the embarrassment often associated with acne.